Skidoo insurance – You need to be well protected, and not just from the cold!

During the winters of 2018, 2019, and 2020, the Quebec Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (FCMQ) reported an increase in the number of victims following snowmobile accidents. Most concerning is that the majority of these accidents occurred off marked trails. These statistics give pause for thought!

Although this activity is very popular in Quebec and synonymous with intense fun, nature, and freedom, it is important to remember that snowmobiling remains a relatively dangerous activity. Therefore, it is important to follow the rules and regulations in effect… and to be properly insured!

To ensure you can enjoy peace of mind this winter, Assurances Multi-Risques has prepared an article providing you with all the important information you need to know about insurance for your snowmobile. Follow the guide!

Snowmobiles and insurance: what is mandatory

In Quebec, it is mandatory to have civil liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000, even if you do not use your snowmobile in the winter. However, we strongly recommend that you opt for $2,000,000 in civil liability coverage. Why? Because $500,000 is not much if you are involved in a terrible accident!

Please also note that by joining the FCMQ, you can benefit from civil liability insurance coverage of $1,000,000. This optional coverage will be offered to you when you subscribe. However, it may be more advantageous for you to decline this option and purchase $2,000,000 in civil liability coverage from the insurance company that insures your vehicle. It’s up to you to do the math! Otherwise, to save yourself the trouble of shopping around, wasting time, and doing all the calculations yourself, you can also call an independent insurance broker who specializes in insurance for snowmobiles and other ATVs!

NOTE: The Société d’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) does not provide any compensation for bodily injury sustained in a snowmobile accident, except in a few specific cases involving a motor vehicle on the road. You are therefore fully responsible for taking out adequate insurance to protect yourself.

What about insurance to cover your snowmobile in all this?

To obtain compensation to cover the cost of repairing your snowmobile in the event of an accident, you have several options. You can insure your recreational vehicle under a separate policy, or you can add it as a supplement to your current auto insurance policy.

Here are the protections that will be offered to you:

Collision and rollover risks—with this coverage, you are covered for damage to your snowmobile if you are responsible for the accident, if you collide with an object, or if your snowmobile rolls over.

All risks (except collision and overturning) – with this coverage, your snowmobile will be covered against theft, vandalism, and fire, among other things.

“No depreciation” insurance – protects your investment in the event of total loss, despite its depreciation over time.

Replacement insurance – provides financial compensation for the purchase of another snowmobile of equivalent value (value on the day of the accident, not the purchase price) from the same dealer or one of your choice, depending on the option selected.

To help you see more clearly and get the right advice on the snowmobile insurance policy that best suits your situation and the value of your off-road vehicle, the best option is always to talk to your insurance broker. He’s the expert!

Tips for reducing your insurance premium

To start with, make sure you maintain a good driving and claims record—in other words, drive carefully! Increase your deductibles, and if you own several snowmobiles or other recreational vehicles, insure them with the same specialized insurer to benefit from a multi-vehicle discount.

Have an anti-theft device or tracking system installed on your snowmobile, and above all, avoid the temptation to reduce certain protections in order to lower your premium.

Become a member of the Quebec Federation of Snowmobile Clubs to benefit from $1 million in civil liability insurance with your trail access card. However, as mentioned above, we recommend that you check with your insurance agent or broker beforehand to find out how much you can save.

And finally, contact an independent insurance broker specializing in snowmobile and ATV insurance!

Be careful on the trails this winter!